The American Naturopathic and Holistic Association (ANHA) supports and educates natural health care practitioners. It was originally created by a group of Traditional Naturopaths, Holistic Practitioners, Reiki Masters, Acupressure Practitioners, and natural health care students in the D.C. metropolitan area in 1997. Its goal is and has always been to assist in the acceptance of natural health care practitioners by the public, to educate its members and volunteers, and to aid in the members’ pursuit of professionalism.

In attempt to support the goals of the association members their board of directors and volunteers have accomplished and are currently working on the following:

• Contacting State commissions and boards on behalf of its members to gain sound legal definitions on their practice.
• Lobbying efforts to support natural health care practitioners and assist in the prevention of unfair treatment of practitioners.
• Collaboration with other civic and professional organizations in the support of natural health care.
• Providing educational information and programs for its members.

The ANHA is an association that aids the practitioner in becoming a professional in his or her own field. It assists its members in being recognized as professionals by their peers and clients. The ANHA is a peer-review organization for professional natural health care practitioners and natural health care training institutions. The board of directors will review applications and clinical experience of the member. Upon evaluation, the board of directors will counsel the member on options available to promote their expertise.